Health Newsfeed # 597
CANCER PROTECTION FROM BROCCOLI SPROUTS
(Stations please note: this story is embargoed for use until Tuesday, Sept. 16)
Five years ago Johns Hopkins scientists identified a cancer-fighting compound called sulforaphane. It's found in some vegetables; broccoli is an especially rich source. But people would have to consume pounds of it every week to obtain the anti-cancer benefits.
This week
Hopkins scientists announced they've discovered a new and highly concentrated source of the
compound: three day old broccoli sprouts. Project director Dr. Paul Talalay. The young sprouts that we have found contain 30 to 50
times higher concentrations, and will make it possible to reduce the total amount of intake of
vegetables that an individual needs to protect himself. :14
Lead
study author Jed Fahey notes that unlike mature broccoli, sprouts need only light and water, not
soil. A comparable amount of chemoprotective
activity can be developed in sprouts in a very small area, a very small room. :06
Broccoli sprouts are not yet sold commercially. At the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, I'm Tom Haederle reporting. Copyright 1997 The Johns Hopkins University. All rights reserved.
